Crossing the Country on Foot: Transformation One Step at a Time

Walking across the continent is not a new thing, but the extent of North American civilization has made it a different experience from what it was in the past. There was a time when there were no accurate maps and many areas were sparsely populated or populated by unknown cultures. The likelihood of reaching the destination was nearly impossible. Today, we have maps, roads, lodging and a high probability of meeting a friendly stranger. It has, however, become harder to wean ourselves from our digital culture and place ourselves in the vulnerable position of wandering. This article by Kate Murphy from the New York Times Opinion Page speaks of men and women who have done just that.